Polythene use remains unchecked across north Kashmir

Baramulla, July 2: Despite a comprehensive ban on single-use plastic items, the use of polythene in north Kashmir continues unabated, posing severe environmental and health risks.

The failure to effectively enforce the ban has led to rampant pollution, with towns like Sopore, Baramulla, Tangmarg, Uri, and Rafiabad witnessing an alarming spread of this hazardous material.

The High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh initially banned the "use, and sale of polythene bags at tourist destinations and healthcare institutions in 2006."

This was followed by the J&K government issuing SRO 182 on June 18, 2008, under the J&K Non-Biodegradable Material (Management, Handling, and Disposal) Act, 2007, which extended the ban to all types of polythene bags. However, successive governments have struggled to enforce this prohibition effectively.

In an effort to combat this issue, the Jammu and Kashmir Pollution Control Committee (JKPCC) issued a public notice two years ago, prohibiting the production, stocking, distribution, sale, and use of single-use plastic in the Union Territory. Despite these measures, the widespread use of polythene in major towns of north Kashmir continues to be a serious problem.

Street vendors, shopkeepers, and various business units across the area openly use polythene without fear of repercussions. This widespread disregard for the law has turned polythene pollution into a burgeoning crisis, endangering both the environment and public health.

The municipal authorities' efforts to curb this menace have been largely ineffective. In Baramulla, municipal council officials claim to have seized 39 kilograms of polythene in the past 12 days and collected fines totalling Rs 1000 from violators. Despite these efforts, the use of polythene remains rampant.

Executive Officer of the Municipal Council Baramulla, Naveed Javed, said that the deputy commissioner Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, has issued an order for filing FIRs against retailers or dealers found with polythene bags. "We have already constituted a committee of officials to ensure strict enforcement of the ban on single-use plastic items, including polythene. Additionally, all toll plazas have been directed to seize any polythene found in vehicles," said Executive officer Municipal Council Baramulla.

“As per the order issued by the deputy commissioner Baramulla, now, an FIR will be lodged against those under whose possession banned item polythene would be found,” added Executive officer Municipal Council Baramulla.

The residents of north Kashmir have expressed their frustration and concern over the unchecked use of polythene. They emphasise the urgent need for stringent enforcement of the ban and greater public awareness about the dangers of polythene use. "While enforcement drives against polythene are crucial, it is equally important for the public to understand the hazardous impact of polythene and strive to avoid its use," said Mubashir Ahmad, a postgraduate student.